Who we are and how we've tried
Are we all the same inside?
It's now or never to decide
Chapter 4: Five Diamonds to take one Spade
Tamlin was still trying to wrap his head around what he'd been told. Everyone was confused, Lucien most of all. The meeting room was silent until Azalea attempted to make sense of it all.
"Let's just analyze the situation slowly.
Alright, so Miss Acheron came to you on the day of her mating bond ceremony fleeing from the Night Court. Correct?"
Both Eris and Nesta nodded.
"Right, and Lord Beron did not wish to grant her asylum so he got in a fight with Lady Imogen which resulted in a forbidden spell being cast and he's now in a coma."
This time Imogen was the one who nodded, looking both guilty and relieved.
"After that, your brother attacked you thinking Beron was dead and you inherited the power, only for your other brother to kill him instead. Once that was settled you all agreed to grant Miss Acheron asylum and keep her safe from the Night Court should they come to claim her?"
"Yes. Given that we're allied with them they cannot send spies to Autumn."
Azalea nodded and turned to Nesta. "And you, Miss Acheron are telling us that the reason for your sudden departure from the Night Court is due to the fact that you've overheard Lord Rhysand and his inner circle discuss plans for him to take over Prythian as High King?"
"I wouldn't put it past him to do so. He seemed determined and so did my sister. The only members of the court not present during said meeting were Morrigan, Elain, and me. They were in my suite helping me pick out jewelry for the wedding when I left to get some tea and calm my nerves. I overheard them as I passed the hall.
When I realized what they were planning I couldn't remain there any longer and winnowed away. I don't intend to go back."
Again there was silence. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. Rhysand who spent five decades plotting against Amarantha and waged war against Hybern to keep them from taking over Prythian was now plotting to do the same thing. 'Guess he just wanted to get rid of his competition.'
Feyre's involvement was a surprise to him though. It was to be expected, she'd do anything for her mate, even if that meant becoming the very woman she swore to destroy. 'Was my court not enough?! You want to break the others as well?!'
Lucien placed his hand over his. He too looked betrayed by such news. "Were you able to hear anything else? Any plans or war strategies?"
"Sadly nothing that concrete. I heard Azriel say that if the other lords bowed to Rhysand then he could become High King without spilling any blood."
"That's it then! To avoid the war, we must keep the other High Lords from joining him. There's already one here who won't bend the knee to him!"
Tamarand's statement was hopeful and bold, yet innocent.
"Brother, you do not know how dangerous Rhysand can be. He'll do whatever it takes to make you bend."
He still remembered the day he bend his knee to Rhysand to keep him from harming Feyre. What had once been done with all of the love he could muster now made his stomach churn. He regretted ever doing that for the person who tore down his court.
Lucien noticed the dullness in his eyes, so he gently squeezed his hand. That instantly calmed him down.
"Let him try. I am not scared of High Lord Rhysand, not now not ever. That man dared hurt you, so all I feel for him is hate. Hate that's strong enough to keep me safe. I won't let him take this court and I sure as hell won't let him hurt my family again!"
He didn't doubt his brother, though everyone else seemed to.
"Rhysand is not to be taken lightly. I tried to oppose him once but that was in vain. He locked me up, forced me to be part of his army, made sure to break me down so I'd obey and the only thing that broke his spell was hearing of the conquest plans."
"Wait! Rhysand locked you up?!" Tamlin asked.
Nesta was taken aback by the reaction. "Yes. The House of Wind can only be escaped by bracing ten thousand steps or being escorted by an authorized party. Otherwise, it's inescapable."
This. This was the same damn thing he did to Feyre! The same thing that had cost him his bride and court! All of it the same and yet his former bride had allowed Rhysand to put her sister through it! Why?! How?! He knew he'd made a horrific mistake by doing such a thing, but he was sick and he was trying to help keep Feyre alive. What excuse did Rhysand have?!
He heard Lucien sigh dejectedly beside him. "I don't miss the House of Wind. He placed me there during the war."
Eris and Imogen turned red with anger, but not more so than Tamlin whose eyes were now glowing like those of a predator. "He dared do that to you too?! You kept his mate safe and escorted her to Night! You could've died for his sake!"
Lucien didn't seem bothered, he knew what the reason was. "Rhysand knew then where my true loyalties lie."
His answer was sweet and calmed his rage slightly, still, Tamlin couldn't help but sink his claws onto the armrest of his chair, he was sure he dented the oakwood.
"In any case, we now know the answer to this predicament. The remaining six courts must all refuse to bend the knee to Rhysand if no one agrees to join him his other option is to invade, but if we're all a united front he'd be facing six courts against one." Ophelia tried to ease the tension.
"Make that six against a third of one. Velaris is the only city that I could see supporting Rhysand's claim. The Illiryans fight for him out of duty but with odds like this they might desert a lord that they despite, likewise with Hewn City."
They all knew Asteria was right. Rhysand had made the fatal mistake of crowning himself King of a continent when he couldn't even rule one territory. Perhaps they had the advantage after all.
"We are planning to build alliances with the other courts as we restore spring, if Rhysand is trying to expand his territory we should first join forces with Dawn and Day. They'll be the first line of defense should all else fail." Azalea suggested.
"I can help you negotiate in Day. Actually, I was traveling there tomorrow, Lucien would you join me?" Imogen asked her son.
Lucien was confused but agreed. "Yes, mother. I'll be happy to go with you."
"Then that leaves Dawn for me and Tamarand." Asteria proposed. "I'll tell my parents to greet us there. I think I know how to convince Lord Thesan to join us."
"Given that you're seeking alliances, now that Beron is unavailable until further notice, I am in charge of Autumn. We could make the alliance official now if you're in agreement Lord Tamarand."
"Of course! I'd be honored!"
He smiled, seeing as one good thing had come out of this mess. His rage at Rhysand and Feyre was still rushing through his veins but Tamlin pushed it down. No good ever came to him by being angry.
Now that the meeting concluded, everyone split up into little groups. Before he could even stand, Lucien took his hand and practically dragged him back to their room.
"Luce, what gives-"
"Your eyes are glowing. I can see the rage. Let it out Tamlin, let it out before it aches."
The room was soundproof and he would thank the gods for that. Tamlin hit a wall with so much force that the stone dented. He roared just as he did whenever he was in beast form, only realizing that he shifted unknowingly.
He sat down on the floor and Lucien went down with him, gently patting his head. "It's been a while since I've seen those antlers."
That made him laugh, even if the sound that came out sounded more animalistic than anything else. "She let this court fall because I locked her away but then she tried to do the same thing to her sister!
Her sister who didn't ask for any of this and helped save us all! Just how could she betray her like that?!
And you! You went through Autumn with her! You were willing to risk it all for her sake and she dare cage you too!"
He was livid about the betrayal to Nesta, but more so over the hypocrisy of the whole situation. The last time Rhysand was here he'd torn into him about his mistakes regarding Feyre, and yet he'd been doing the same to his sister-in-law without any regrets.
Not to mention Lucien. His beloved Lucien who left him during the war, the one whose absence tore him apart until he returned to visit, the one who was so was so eager to meet his mate, was caged for his troubles and his contributions diminished. It made his blood boil.
"It's not like Rhysand is known for being consistent. We'll have to deal with this situation accordingly, but for now, let's be calm. I know neither Tamarand nor you will bend to him."
"Never. Never again."
He'd bent the knee to Rhysand once, and that was all to save Feyre. But after all of this, they could be back under the mountain and he wouldn't dare give any of them the satisfaction.
Lucien still held onto him. His friend was always fascinated with his beastly forms, even in their youth.
"You look so cool!" He would say as he ran his hands through Tamlin's fur.
"Think I could take down our brothers in this form?" Tamlin asked.
Lucien smiled sadly. "I don't think so. They're all older than us and more powerful."
"Oh, that's too bad." Tamlin's ears fell and he stopped wagging his tail, that is until Lucien began putting him again.
"That's okay, I still think you're amazing."
Tamlin didn't need more than those words to feel unstoppable.
"You still like this form?" He asked.
Lucien smiled at him just as sweetly as he did when they were children. "Of course I do."
Again with mere words, pats, and a kiss upon his forehead, the former High Lord felt renewed.
The eldest Acheron sister was difficult to read. She'd been told that this woman was fierce, feared by Illyrians, and once comparable in power to the deities of death.
Azalea could tell Nesta was regal, she had a very elegant poise and from here mere matter of speaking alone one could tell this was a woman raised to embody class and stoicism. Yet she was so very broken.
The glassy thousand-yard stare of those blue-grey eyes told as such, this once fiery woman had been through hell, a hell she hoped to hide.
This is why she agreed to give Lady Acheron a check-up. Because despite her hatred for the youngest Acheron sister she would not extend should judgment upon another who had also been her victim.
Nesta was silent as Azalea instructed her. There was not much to report physically other than the fact that she was slightly underweight, though significantly less so than Tamlin, and that some wounds she had sustained from the rite were still healing.
"You're in decent health, my lady. However, mentally I can tell you're quite distraught.
We're not well acquainted by any means but I can listen should you need someone to lend an ear."
Nesta was doubtful for a moment before nodding. She removed her cloak and revealed a tattoo on her back to Azalea. The healer could tell Nesta had dug her nails into her own back and tried to peel the marred skin with them.
"This was from a bargain with my mate...well, former mate. The fool claimed to love me and I in my superior foolishness believe him. We were to be wed, but then I discovered Rhysand's plans and...I knew I couldn't stay.
We've been volatile since we met, but often times that also came with passion and affection. We weren't mated during the war and still, I was willing to die for him. Yet he who claimed to love me wasn't even willing to defend me from his colleagues.
He was a participant in my imprisonment and yet I still fell for him! I can't fathom how that happened! Just how I let myself be beaten into submission by him or the inner circle is beyond me!"
Azalea couldn't use her usual nurturing tactics to comfort Nesta. Not only were they strangers but she could tell physical affection was not something Nesta would've wanted, at least not now.
Instead, she did as expected of a healer with a patient, and she used her magic upon Nesta's back, healing the scars and removing the tattoo.
"If I may offer an explanation, perhaps you didn't wish to say but were compelled to by the mating bond. Mated couples have a pull towards one another even if I've seen cases where both parties seemed shackled instead of freely following through with previous affections. Biologically speaking it's likely the bond endeared you to your mate, even if he was a less-than-stellar person.
A far more sinister explanation would be that the High Lord of Night might've used his daemati powers on you."
That made Nesta wince, but she quickly relaxed. "I wouldn't put it past him."
Azalea expected it, still, those words disgusted her. "You don't need to worry about this anymore. You're safe, and that's all that matters. We'll make sure that sad excuse for a High Lord does not dare put a finger on you, he won't even be able to leave his own court when the calvary comes. I'm sure of it!"
Nesta's expression remained neutral save for a small curl of her lips. "You're quite the optimist."
"Every healer must be. Now, tell me if you liked my work."
She helped Nesta stand and look at her reflection in the long mirror of her room. The scars were gone and so was the tattoo.
A part of her felt relieved so glad to finally be free of this all, yet the part of her that still clung to the bond was absolutely devastated. 'In time, you'll be quiet.' Neasta thought.
"I'm very satisfied with my care. Thank you."
"Happy to help."
Often time High Lords were unapproachable stoic men who did nothing but project intimidation. Eris didn't see any of that with Tamarand.
The new High Lord of Spring just took him on a tour of the new lush gardens of Spring. He excitedly explained everything about the plants and weeds that were now growing.
"You seem awfully chirpy." He commented.
"Oh, I'm sorry. Am I boring you?"
"Not at all. I like being able to speak freely with you. Though I should warn you to not be this informal with the other lords. They're very formal and should you not match their energy then they could refuse alliances."
Tamarand squeaked. "I'm aware. Honestly, I would've preferred it if Azalea inherited the magic. She's much better suited for the job than me."
"Don't misunderstand me, from the recovery this Court is going through and the fact that you're very kind I can tell you have the court's best interests at heart. Being a High Lord is first and foremost about caring for one's court and their people, the problem is that many have turned this into a performance down to the details.
At your core, you are suited for this. Just be sure to wear the right mask when dealing with diplomatic matters."
"I'm afraid I'm not as well-versed in politics as you. This was never in my plans."
Eris chuckled. "For me, this is my life's work."
They stared at the sky which began to brighten after the rain stopped, a rainbow would soon form.
Eris glanced at Tamarand who was wagging his tail, mesmerized by the pretty sight. 'This one must be protected.' He thought. Still, there was something that had to be proven before he could truly trust the novice lord.
"Tamarand, there is a favor I must ask of you. In return for workers to rebuild, I need you to keep Miss Nesta safe here in Spring."
"I wouldn't mind doing so in the slightest but, wouldn't she be safer in Autumn? We already caught one of Azriel's shadows sneaking around, what if they find her?"
"The Night Court can't send spies to Autumn but they can come to visit at any time. If Cassian so much as smells her presence then Nesta would be discovered and likely forced to go back to the Night Court.
I doubt Rhysand will send more spies given that he knows now your mother is half Illiryan and has Hewn City ancestry as well. If there's so much of a glimpse of shadow then I'll come to relocate Nesta immediately."
"If you're discussing the girls they're in the dining room letting mom dote on them."
The two turned around to see Tamlin and Lucien arrive. The former High Lord looked calm, Eris noticed he seemed in a slightly better shape than the last time he came here. 'His new family must be caring for him.'
"We were discussing having Nesta over for a while until the Night Court stops searching. Would you both be okay with that?"
"Of course. I would never refuse shelter to a person in need. Nesta may be harsh sometimes but she was still willing to warn us of the court's plans and has been nothing but respectful since her arrival. I'd be happy to help her adjust should she want to stay."
"What about you Tamlin? Would this be okay with you?"
"Tamarand you know well that your word is law, and that this court belongs to you now. My input is not necessary.
Still, if you want it I have no objections to Miss Acheron staying here. My issues are with her sister and former lord, and given she does not want them near either then we are in agreement."
"It's settled then. Nesta may stay with us!"
Eris smiled. Relieved that he could find a place for Nesta until he fooled the Night Court into thinking she was far away, and even more so at first finding out that despite his authority Tamarand too would consult his brother and take his comfort into account. 'He's worthy.'
With the matter settled, they could all relax for the time being. Eris knew he'd have to maneuver around the Night Court, but that would likely be easy in this situation.
He thrived in chaos after all.
Her first night in Autumn Court had also been sleepless. Nesta tossed and turned for a while until she had to rise from the fluffy bed.
Dinner had been great, and Ophelia offered her seconds that she gladly took, after that she read for a while in Azalea's company. Despite having just met the young lady she was rather fond of her calm yet friendly nature.
Given that Imogen was staying with them until tomorrow and often went to bed late, she thought about speaking with her. The Lady of the Autumn Court was already in conversation with Ophelia. They were sitting in the library drinking tea and laughing.
"I'm so glad to hear from you again. I know you were Rosabella's lady but all of us were fighting over who got to hire you next!"
Ophelia laughed. "I'm flattered but you know where my loyalties lied."
"I do. I'm sorry, for what happened. We all missed you when you left and had I known why I would've offered you a place in Autumn."
"Thank you, Imogen. That means a lot to me, but it is for the best I gave up on court life after the pregnancy. Asteria and I wanted the kids to be away from such a political scene, one look at them and Beron would've known and revealed them to Oisin. I couldn't risk that."
"I understand. If not for the boys, I think I would've been gone long ago..."
Nesta couldn't tell if she meant to leave or to die, she didn't want clarification either.
"That's what he wants. Never let him get it.
Men like that, only want power. Be it over their subjects, their families, or their wives, it's all a power play to them.
I don't doubt that Oisin might've had genuine love for Rosabella, but he also wanted her completely under his control. I was breaking that control, because my lady listened to me on matters of the lesser fae, and he couldn't stand the thought that someone else held some influence over his wife.
That's why he did what he did to me. He wanted me gone, be it if I left like I did or if I stayed and he could use the triplets as an excuse to kill us all.
I wouldn't give him the satisfaction of ending us, so I ran, but I do regret not wanting my lady. Had she left..."
"Rosa would've never left his side, not even if the palace was set ablaze. Her death was not your fault.
I often thought of breaking away from Beron's control as well. The children were the reason I never did. Had I left them, then Beron's rage would've fallen fully upon them. I couldn't let that happen."
"He knows this. There's a reason he's so smug about it all. I just hope he ceases to breathe soon. That way the only one in need of protection would be Nesta."
She was ready to hear all about how much trouble she was causing or how difficult she was to deal with, nothing could've prepared her for what she heard.
"I'm so worried about her! The poor girl came to us in a wedding dress and weeping! It felt as if I was seeing my younger self, or rather what I wanted to do on my wedding day. I can't let that man get to her. She doesn't deserve to share such a fate!"
"She won't. I promise you we shall protect her. I'm going to fight for her as if she was my daughter. No night shall befall her, not while we're here."
Nesta opened the door to the library, both ladies stood up upon hearing her. "Nesta?"
She didn't say a word and just rushed in to hug them both. It had been so long since she didn't feel like she was a burden.
The women said nothing and just held her as she silently cried. 'Is this what motherly love is supposed to feel like?'
"No more tears darling. From now on, you get to be happy."
It had been almost a century since Tamarand set foot in the Dawn Court. His grandparents were often the ones to visit them. After the war they didn't have the chance to do so due to the repair efforts on both courts and then the dire state of Spring didn't help matters.
Despite this, he instantly recognized his grandmother, as the woman had remained unchanged since he was a child. Same pretty grey dreads, the same pretty red lips and hazel eyes, and the same sparkling sari garments that made her look lovely.
"Awww, my handsome boy! How I've missed you!" Joreen squeezed his cheeks and hugged him tightly. High Lord or not, he was still a baby in her eyes.
"Mother, one of these days you'll make him pop," Asteria told her mother.
She was promptly ignored as Joreen let go of him and quickly hugged her just as tightly. "Don't think I didn't miss you too!"
Asteria rolled her eyes, still, she returned the hug.
Tamarand turned his attention to his grandfathers. Rajah had grown his grey-black hair out. His silver eyes were full of joy upon seeing him again. "Good to see ya lad. How's Lordship treating ya?"
"I'm well grandpa. It's certainly a different road as to what I envisioned but I'll pull through."
His other grandfather waved upon arriving. Former viscount Uriel was the one that had changed the most, having fought in the war against Hybern the middle-aged man had been wheelchair-bound for a year after the war, now he used a cane and seemed much healthier, still, he'd changed his long white ponytail for a short prim look, grown a beard, and the tattoos upon his dark skin still remained save for the one in his hand that had been burned away in battle.
"Grandfather, it's good to see you too! How are you?"
He sat down and placed his cane aside before signing 'I'm getting better child, it's good to see you.'
They all waited together until Lord Thesan appeared. Eris had told him that the Lord of Dawn was calm and approachable, despite his intimidating aura. This counsel is what kept Tamarand from falling over due to nerves.
"Lord Tamarand is nice to meet you. I have been told by your family that you have urgent business with me. Is that true?"
He remained calm and spoke. "Yes sir. If you're able I'd like to speak with you privately."
The High Lord nodded and motioned for him to follow. The Dawn Court palace was beautiful, marble walls and golden pillars adorned the structure, but what caught his attention most was the beautiful paintings upon the ceilings of the halls and rooms they passed. Finally, Thesan guided him to a meeting room, it was as beautifully decorated as the rest of the palace.
His tail and floppy ears betrayed his calm demeanor, Thesan seemed amused. "I take it you like the palace?"
"Oh yes! It's very beautiful!" He beamed. "My sister would be ecstatic to see such pretty ancient art!"
"Do bring her with you for your next visit."
"Will do!"
He sat down with the High Lord, internally rehearsing what he would say. 'Azalea, Daphne you should've left me some intelligence back in the womb!'
"Well, what is that you wish to discuss, Tamarand."
"My lord, I'm here hoping to form an alliance between the Dawn Court and the Spring Court. I'm sure you're aware that our court is only now being properly rebuilt, but I can assure you that once we get our affairs in order we'd be valuable allies in terms of resources and also willing to help you with the flow of Night Court refugees that come to your court.
Aside from that, I'm inclined to believe my grandparents have spoken to you about the current threat we face."
"Yes, Lady Singh informed me of what your mother told her. You claim Lord Rhysand is planning to take over as High King of Prythian?"
"We have reason to think he might be considering that. Given that your court and Lord Helion's are those closest to him we want to be certain you won't concede to his demands. Even if you still keep a friendly and seemingly oblivious demeanor."
"I've never been inclined to deal too closely with the Night Court save for taking in the people who escape it. After the less-than-stellar way they behaved during our last meeting I don't even care to ally with them under normal circumstances, much less having their Lord come into my lands and demand dominion over them. This court is mine and mine alone, no one shall take it from me, much less him.
You however seem to be a polite young man who cares greatly for his court. Before you arrived Eris Vanserra had sent me a letter urging me to accept your offer of allyship. He was very impressed with you as well. That man's judgment has rarely been wrong, and from what I've seen today you are indeed worthy of support.
I'd be happy to work with Spring Court so as long as your grandparents continue to help me with the refugees and we can trade upon your court's rehabilitation. Are those terms agreeable?"
His face lit up. "Yes! Oh, thank you, my lord! I really look forward to working with you."
Thesan smiled at him. "I as well. When you back home, do send Tamlin my regards."
"Consider it done! I'm sure he'll be happy to hear from you!"
Still giddy from his success, Tamarand made his way back to the entrance to tell his family the good news. He didn't expect to see his grandparents, mother, and his uncle speaking to Lord Thesan's mother.
His uncle Amir was wearing his armor save for the helmet, upon seeing him the tall winged soldier left the conversation and lounged in a hug. "Oh, how I've missed you! How's my favorite nephew?"
"I'm well uncle! I've missed you as well! Just spoke to Lord Thesan and he's agreed to an alliance!"
"Those are fantastic news! Frankly, I'm hoping you can help us out soon. Place's is getting crowded and hard to manage."
"Did something happen?"
"We've had to relocate a lot of new citizens these past few days. I suspect more will come soon, given that the Night Court hasn't properly reconstructed Hewn City."
It irked him to no end to hear that. Just how could a man so powerful and rich not give a damn about his people?! Was Velaris all that mattered to him?
A glance at Asteria and Joreen answered that question, had they not escaped they'd be trapped back there and his uncle would not have been born for his grandmother would still be nothing but breeding stock and an overworked maid.
"It'll be okay uncle. We're going to help those people."
Lucien could tell Imogen was nervous. She was rigid when they arrived Day, not even bothering to hide from the scorching sun, her nervousness increased when they walked through the palace doors, as she was trembling.
Tamlin asked before he could. "Imogen, are you okay?"
"I'm fine darling. It's just...it's been a while since I've seen Lord Helion. There's something I must tell him and I don't know how he'll react."
Just what could be so dire that Imogen would be sweating buckets he didn't know.
Tamlin too was suspicious but said nothing.
Lord Helion was waiting for them in his throne room. He sent everyone away as they crossed the doors. Upon being left alone the High Lord stood from his throne and made his way to them, Imogen didn't wait and ran into his arms for a hug.
Both he and Tamlin immediately understood. 'Guess even mom's had her secrets to keep.'
"It's so good to see you again."
"You too. I almost cried when I read your letter."
Both he and Tamlin were about to walk out and give them some privacy until Imogen cleared her throat. "Both of you stay. There is something I need to tell you all before negotiations begin. It's very important."
He thought that her affections with the Day Lord were the reason she was so stressed, but was there more? Lucien decided to stop speculating and to listen.
All three of them were listening as Imogen took a breath and spoke. "Lord Helion is your father Lucien, not Beron."
The room fell eerily silent for a moment. If not for his mother's tone and expression Helion's he would've taken this as a bad joke.
"Just...what?! Mother, are you serious?!"
"Imogen, is this true?"
"Yes. I've known since the moment I first held Lucien in my arms. Beron probably suspected so as well, but Lucien showed signs of having my power, therefore nothing could be proven."
He didn't know what to say or think. It was a relief to know he shared no blood with that vile man, that he owed him nothing. Yet he was crushed to think that all this time he could've had a father who cared for him and might've loved him.
Tamlin was already pulling him close as he looked at both him and Helion. "Honestly, I can see the resemblance now. It is subtle but once you notice..."
"You can't unsee it," Imogen mentioned, her voice guilty and ashamed.
"I don't know what to say...How come you never told me?" Helion asked.
"If you'd known, you would've gone to war for us. Wouldn't you?"
Helion opened his mouth to argue but quickly backed down. Tamlin understood, as there was a time he too was willing to wage war with the Night Court for his bride's sake.
"I didn't want our courts to go to war for our sake. When you and Jesminda became a couple I was going to tell you and facilitate your escape but Beron found out before anything could be done...I'm sorry Lucien, if I'd been able I would've saved you both."
"No. Don't apologize. There's nothing to be done now. Even if you had asked I'm sure she would've refused. Jess wanted nothing more than to settle in Autumn." Lucien wept silently even if his tears betrayed him.
Had he been able he would've taken that chance to see Jesminda live, but knew she would've refused it. Like his mother, she would've never risked a war for their sake. Still, his heart broke upon knowing that the possibility of saving her had once been present and slipped away just as easily.
"Lucien, I know nothing of being a father, but should you want it, I can be happy to try for your sake. To know that I do have a son with the woman I love is something I never expected but would gladly accept. From now on, I'd like to call you my son."
Tamlim let go of him so that he would go to Helion. Lucien could only nod and hug the older man tightly. "I'd be happy to be your son!"
Imogen smiled breathing a sigh of relief, she glanced at Tamlin who was glowing with joy, happy to see Lucien finally get the loving father he'd always wanted.
"Be sure to impress your father-in-law, dear," Imogen whispered in his ear.
Before he could protest, Imogen walked away, leaving him red and flustered.
"As happy as it makes me to see you're getting along, we do have an alliance to discuss."
Helion quickly asked for a seaside table to be set, and for them to discuss their terms there. Even as they walked he wouldn't let go of Imogen's hand, it was adorable to see.
Lucien was still shaken but he felt ready to speak, more so with Tamlin being there too. The moment they sat down and food was served, negotiations began.
"From what I have been told you wish for me to ally myself with Spring now that there's been a change of High Lord."
"Yes. My brother Tamarand Ambrose is now wielding the power of the Spring Court. We shall make an official announcement once the court is fully rebuilt. At the moment resources are limited to flora but if there's anything else you'd like to use as a trade I can plan with my siblings.
While our priority is to fix the court, there is another matter for which we seek an alliance."
"Which is?"
"We have reason to believe Rhysand is planning to take over the continent as High King." Lucien was the one to reveal this, knowing that his father would likely consider it slander if Tamlin was the one to make the accusation.
Helion was petrified. "There has to be a mistake. Rhysand...He wouldn't do such a thing!"
"It's not easy to believe, and while I had my reservations upon hearing about it there is reason to think this plan may come to fruition soon if we do not stop it."
"If you do not trust our word then do trust your lady's word."
Helion looked at Imgoen beside him. "I'm sorry, but it is true. Autumn was the first to find out. I immediately wrote you after that and...Given that Rhysand is your friend I thought you deserved to hear the news in person. I'm so sorry."
He looked more disappointed than angry as if he wanted to cry. "I...I took care of him as a child! I was friends with him for so long and now he dares try to take my court from me! Just what reason could he have to think any of us would hand over our life's work to him?!"
"We do not know that, my lord. Even I who's hated Lord Rhysand for centuries now, didn't expect this from him.
We spent 50 years under a tyrant and fought a war against another recently. There is no conceivable reason for him to do as they did, and think we would all accept it.
You don't need to give us an answer right now, just consider what we've said, and should you choose to join us then simply refuse Rhysand if he asks you to bend the knee to him. As long as we do not submit he cannot crown himself High King."
"Actually I shall answer to you now. Despite my long-standing friendship with Rhysand, I'll stand against him if these High King plans are put in motion. The only thing I ask in return of the Spring Court is to properly care for my son as long as he stays there."
Both Lucien and Tamlin smiled. He felt Tamlin gently take his hand. "Consider it done, Lord Helion."
This time he couldn't hide the red that overtook his face.
After lunch, Lucien decided to give his parents some privacy. There'd be plenty of time for him to bond with Helion as they cultivated their new alliance.
A calming walk with Tamlin through the beaches of the Day Court was exactly what he needed. This meeting had already been taxing enough despite the happiness. The golden sand and crystalline water gave such a relaxed air that he didn't mind the scorching sun.
"How do you feel?"
"I'm torn. It's liberating to know I share nothing with Beron other than hatred. And I understand why my mother would keep it all secret to avoid war. Still, a part of me wishes this had been my home from the start. So much sorrow could've been avoided..."
One day he'd ask Imogen for the whole story. The story of how she could come to wed the Lord of Autumn when her true love was the Lord of the Sun.
'Maybe...maybe she was once like me.'
Like he who had once loved the Lord of Spring even if he was certain his affections were doomed from the start. Unlike them, however, Imogen and Helion would get their happy ending.
"Be it a crown of Autumn or Day, you were made to radiate light."
Tamlin loved seeing the red blush take over Lucien's pretty face. He'd often say sweet things to him and play it off as teasing, but the truth was that he meant every single word.
Lucien simply hid his face in his hands until the blush faded. "You sure know how to make me feel better with your sweet talking."
"I do mean it."
"I know. And I mean it when say that even if growing here would've been a blessing, it does not compare to having met you and lived with you
By blood, I'm a child of Auttumn and Day but by heart, I'm of Spring. Never forget that."
Lucien expected a refutation, for Tamlin to roll his eyes or accuse him of lying, not for Tamlin's arms to wrap around him and for him to gently kiss his forehead. "I'm going to treasure you properly this time."
"You always have."
"I didn't think it would be so easy," Nesta said as she allowed Ophelia to paint her nails.
All of the Spring Court ladies were getting ready for the official coronation ceremony. Reparations were now complete, Tamarand was spending every spare second he had preparing along with his brother, while Lucien got everything ready regarding new staff for the manor and the rest of the court's new inhabitants.
Asteria waved her hands gently allowing the white nail polish to dry. "Neither did I, but given the way your former court acted on the last meeting and the fact that Rhysand spent half a century cultivating a tyrannical image to everyone else, is it any wonder they all believed the threat was legitimate?"
Ophelia's eyes fell, there were more than enough reasons to think the Night Lord would want to do exactly as their previous enemies had. 'You're not going to ruin our home a second time, you bastard!'
Whenever rage built up inside her she replaced it with art, so Ophelia carefully finished applying the red to Nesta's nails. She smiled upon seeing the results. "Thank you, they're lovely."
Ophelia smiled back. "I'm glad you like them, sweetheart! Your turn now baby!"
Azalea was always giddy when her mother pampered her. "Lavander this time please!"
"Lavander it is!" Ophelia chirped as she picked out the color and began to paint. "There is something that vexes me. We still need to insure Winter and Summer stand with us. Otherwise, they could turn the tide in Rhysand's favor."
"We can handle that later. Four against one are good odds for the time being. As brash as Rhysand can be, it's likely he'll be doing some preparations before trying to convince anyone to give their court to him." Azalea told them.
Nesta chuckled when she heard the slight insult while Asteria rolled her eyes. "Can't take care of his own but wants to rule the entire continent. Why am I not surprised?"
"You both lived there. You know them better than us."
"I highly doubt I truly knew those people," Nesta commented, clutching her skirts. "I think all I did was bend to them, just to get some silence..."
Asteria let the girl place her head upon her shoulder, gently massaging her back. "The only way to survive the Night Court is to bend or to run. You did what you had to stay alive. Don't be ashamed of it."
She smiled upon seeing her wife comfort their new 'daughter'. Ophelia wouldn't push the issue, as she knew Nesta needed time to heal but if the girl wished so they'd take her in as their own in a heartbeat.
"Done. My turn now."
"Don't, we'll do them for you."
Azalea, Asteria, and Nesta all picked up a different color polish, intending to give Ophelia rainbow nails.
The older woman chuckled as her wife and girls all took to pampering her. The sun shone outside as the people began gathering inside the ballroom of the manor, waiting to be addressed and to meet the new High Lord.
'If she were here Daphne would've asked for sky blue nails, Rosabella would've wanted green...maybe gold, she often surprised me with her requests.'
There were so many people who she wished were still here to see this. All of them gone for three years now, soon to be four. Thinking of them wouldn't bring them back yet she found herself doing so more and more. 'No, today is a happy day. My girls are with me in spirit and the rest are making me look good."
Just as they were about to finish the look, there was a knock on the door. From the other side of the door, Lucien's gentle voice could be heard.
"Ladies, it's time!"
At last, it was time for Tamarand to take the throne. They all took one last glance at themselves in the mirror, ready to go. 'Now or never, it's showtime!'
Of all the faces he could see, there were few he recognized. Tamlin had lost half his court during the war and most of the other half had left afterward.
Lucien too spotted some familiar faces, but this was mostly new blood. Tamarand was shaking before even speaking a word but calmed considerably upon taking charge.
"Welcome everyone! Thank you for taking the time to be here today. As most of you may know by now, I am the new High Lord of Spring, Tamarand Ambrose. As citizens of my court, I promise to rule over you with kindness, wisdom, and strength.
We intend to make this court rise from the ashes of war and go back to its former beauty. Said goal can only be achieved by your cooperation, for rebuilding and natural healing had been completed we must re-integrate ourselves into the commercial landscape of Prythian. Rest assured that you'll all be compensated for your work and I'm ready to do everything in my hands to make sure you're provided for in every way. Be it former citizens or newcomers we are all now children of Spring. So let us rejoice in ushering in a new era for this land and its people!"
Everyone cheered, giddy at the words of their new High Lord. Tamarand waited to speak again, this time looking at his beloved family.
"To conclude, I'd like to thank the people who made this possible. Those who have worked tirelessly with me rebuild the court, the manor, and our structure.
Lord Eris of the Autumn Court and his talented workers were the ones behind the reconstruction of our buildings, they may not be here today but still, I'd like to show my appreciation.
My family who's at the left of me have done everything in their power to help organize our court, heal it, and repopulate it, I expect them to be honored for that just as you've done with me. In fact, there are two people who deserve to speak to you if desired. Two men whose contributions to this court began long before I was High Lord and have continued to this day. Lucien, Tamlin, if you wish to say anything please come to me."
Lucien smiled, but he was not interested in addressing the court. His work here wasn't done and wouldn't be for a while yet he didn't wish to go back to his old role. Instead, he'd let Tamlin speak. "The floor is yours." He whispered.
Tamlin would've fallen apart facing the crowd if not for his brother and beloved who were beside him. He'd say what he had to before officially giving up his post.
"Everyone, as my brother has said we're all grateful to have you here. I especially want to address those of you who were once my subjects.
I am sorry that I was not a better High Lord to you because you all deserved better than what I gave. Until the end of my life, I promise to work to remedy such a failing and I now leave you in the most capable of hands. Because my sibling here will be a thousand times the High Lord I was, do trust in him. May the gods smile down upon us and this court continues to bloom with proper leadership at the helm. Thank you for allowing me to serve you."
He expected nothing after that. Not cheering and smiles from people he thought hated him. He bowed allowing Tamarand to take center stage again.
Azalea passed him the cushion with the golden crown of Spring placed upon it. Tamlin took the crown in his hands. It had been cleaned so it shone brighter than he'd ever seen it, but the former High Lord didn't care to look at it for long. To him said crown had been nothing but a nightmare to wear. It was now going to someone who didn't see it as a burden but as a duty, someone worthy of it.
Tamarand kneeled, allowing Tamlin to place it upon his head. His ears twitched when the cold golden circlet was placed upon it, but save for that, it was light to carry.
When he rose everyone else bowed, recognizing him as High Lord Tamarand Ambrose of the Spring Court.
This new phase of his life might've meant he had to give up on his affectionate and trusting nature, but Tamarand wouldn't let anyone or any rules take away from who he truly was, and had always been.
The moment Tamlin stood, Tamarand hugged him. He was surprised but still laughed and returned the gesture.
"I'm standing here, thanks to you." He told him.
Tamlim didn't feel as if he'd done much, they just had magic lessons and studied together, still, he could tell that meant the world to his baby brother. This man would never lie to him, and the same applied to him.
"Me too." He replied. Continuing to guide his brother was his only reason to stay alive.
Tamlin glanced at his family, they were all overjoyed at the scene, cheering louder than anyone else. Especially Lucien, who while not being bound to any court still looked like the regal emissary that kept him afloat all those years.
Maybe it wasn't just Tamarand, maybe there were more reasons to stay.
"The populous has settled down well, there are no complaints when it comes to the housing or the crops, and since February is fast approaching I'm sure that with the change from winter to spring we'll be getting more flowers and veggies to commence trade."
Azalea confidently strode through the halls beside her brother as she read the information compiled. These first few weeks of having a full-functioning court had been a success.
They were both learning the names of the staff who now worked at the manor, and of the nearby business owners. Asteria had expanded her dress shop and hired many of the Illyrian women who came to court as seamstresses. Ophelia while still helping around in the kitchen from time to time, took up gardening and a 'book club' with Nesta, Azalea, Lucien, and some of the sentries of the manor. Finally, she'd noticed that Tamlin and Lucien were spending their time both continuing Tamarand's training and patrolling the rebuilt court, though it looked more to her that they were nostalgically going on stroll dates.
'Those two should get married soon, I want wedding cake!' Azalea thought to herself as they reached the entrance. Both she and Tamarand dropped the papers they were holding. 'Unexpected visit much?'
Lord Helion, Lord Thesan, Lord Eris, Lord Kallias, and his wife Viviane were there waiting for them. The maid apologized saying she felt necessary to bring them in without warnings.
"It's okay, we can take it from here. Go rest."
"My lords, it's a surprise to see you all here." Tamarand hid his anxiety well, she wasn't so sure if her worry wasn't showing.
"We are sorry to come here without warning, but Lord Kallias and Lady Viviane insisted we all have a meeting."
If they could get the Winter Court as allies then maybe the whole High King situation could be over before it began. There was no way Summer wouldn't join them as well.
Everyone was taken to the meeting room of the manor, Ophelia was quick to whip us some refreshments and leave them all to talk business.
"I'll be brief, I have been asked to join an alliance by Lord Eris and Lord Helion, said the alliance isn't just one of trade but they're saying the inner circle of the Night Court is plotting to crown their Lord as High King. Is this all true?" Kellas asked.
The pale man was hard to read, as every time they'd seen him and even his portraits radiated nothing but coldness and neutrality. His wife however looked upset, no doubt she resented the possibility that her friend could be involved in such a scheme.
"Yes, you're correct, my lord. We suspect High Lord Rhysand and High Lady Feyre intend to take over Prythian as High King and Queen.
This alliance while one of trade amongst ourselves to help boost the economy of our courts also seeks to help prevent said takeover. If no one bows to Rhysand he cannot claim himself High King. At least not without using force and if he dares use force we have grounds to declare war. Even he would not risk a war against multiple courts."
She hoped Tamarand's explanation would convince him to join them, or at least remain neutral, she was surprised when Viviane was the one to speak. "You expect us to believe this without any proof?! How do we know you're not doing this as a slander campaign because of what Rhysand did to your deposed unruly brother!"
Tamarand's eyes turned bright green, glowing with beastly rage. Azalea just placed her hand over his chest before anything could happen.
"My lady, while I can understand your skepticism and will be happy to explain in more detail, neither of us will tolerate any insults toward our brother, that goes for everyone at this table!"
She didn't raise her voice or move an inch, but Azalea's steely tone made them all fall still and silent. Eventually, Eris was the one to speak.
"The Spring Court wasn't the first to be made aware of this plot. I was. And my lady if you recall I'm allied with Lord Rhysand and with Kier of Hewn City. I have no reason to lie about men whose support I require."
She still looked unconvinced, Lord Kallias was the one to speak next. "Then show us the proof of what you claim and we shall believe you."
Tamarand, Eris, and Azalea all looked frantically at each other. The one person who could prove their claims had to remain hidden and protected. Nesta proved them right but they wouldn't expose her to such risk.
Noticing their distress made the Lady of Winter more confident in her claims. "See! They're lying! I can't believe you'd fall for such a thing you're supposed to be his friend!"
Her accusations were directed at Helion who merely shrugged. "Precisely because we were friends is that I am wary of Rhysand trying to take over. He has the drive and very clearly can't conduct himself in a setting where he isn't in control."
She hadn't been present in the previous High Lord meeting, but Tamlin, Nesta, and Eris had, and they'd all let her know what a disaster that had been.
"That may be so, but unless you have any concrete proof of this accusation I have no interest in joining all of you in this alliance." Lord Kallias stood up, reading himself to leave.
She panicked trying to think of a way to salvage this without revealing Nesta, but in the end, the decision was made for her.
"I am the living proof you want."
Nesta came through the wall of the meeting room giving everyone but her and Eris a scare. "I really shouldn't have thought you how to go through walls," Azalea warned.
"It's a useful spell," Nesta replied playfully.
"How?! They're looking for you!" Viviane told her. "Morrigan came to court worried sick, looking for you!"
"I doubt the worry was for me and more for having someone leave their little circle without being dismissed.
I left the Night Court because of what they're planning, heard it with my own two ears, and have reason to think these plans will be carried out in time.
Rhysand wanted me to help him search for the trove, he wanted me to deceive the eldest prince of the Autumn Court and he is looking for excuses to have you all bend to him. Whatever he says, isn't in good faith."
Nesta's apparition solidified Helion's and Thesan's position, both Lords looked surprised but convinced of what they once agreed to. Kallias however still looked unconvinced.
"Why should we believe you, Miss Acheron?"
"I have no reason to lie about this. Not when I was given a position inside the inner circle and about to be married to my mate. I left it all because of what I learned.
Regardless of the love I might've had for these people once there is no questioning that they're wrong in even entertaining this idea. The mistakes of the past must not be repeated much less by a man who cannot even properly manage his own court.
You don't have to join us, but consider that five courts against one make for better odds, and if the odds are against him, then Rhysand might give up on this scheme before it starts."
They were both considering it, Kallias looked at his wife, his expression showing sadness and love. "Viv, you have to admit, that there is precedent." He spoke as if he didn't want to, yet had to.
Viviane nodded, trying not to cry. "I know. It's just hard to process. They were close to us for so long...Can we set conditions if we were to join you?"
"Absolutely," Tamarand answered.
"Regardless of whether or not we end up going to war, I want the guaranteed safety of Morrigan."
"I am in agreement with that. What's say the rest of you?" Tamarand asked.
Helion nodded. "I can guarantee no harm will come to her from me."
"Me too. " Thesan answered.
"I don't even wish to see that woman in a painting much less in person. No harm will come to her from me."
"Then I have no other requests."
"Neither do I. Given you all have agreed to my wife's terms we shall join you for the time being, but if any of you break our condition we will withdraw our alliance."
"Happy to have you on board. It's now five against one."
"Perhaps it could be six, has anyone spoken to Tarquin? If he joins us then we have nothing to worry about." Thesan suggested.
"That's easier said than done. While he is wary of the Night Court after the war he has ties to it due to his cousin. Not to mention his reluctance to trust other courts. "
Helion's words worried her. For this plan to work everyone had to stand against Rhysand, but it was true that their neighboring court had taken lots of damages from the war and that the prince of Adriata was involved with Amren. 'No, it's not him who we have to convince. It's the High Lord.'
Their next priority aside from keeping Spring afloat would be to recruit Tarquin. By any means necessary.